Evidence supporting the use of: Indian bael
For the body system: Rectum

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 3

Indian bael (Aegle marmelos) has a long-standing history of use in traditional Indian (Ayurvedic) medicine, particularly for gastrointestinal health. The fruit, roots, and leaves have been employed to treat a variety of digestive disorders, including diarrhea, dysentery, and constipation. These actions are closely linked to the health and function of the rectum, as they pertain to the terminal phase of digestion and fecal elimination.

Bael fruit pulp is often consumed to manage chronic constipation due to its mild laxative properties, thought to be related to its fiber content and bioactive compounds such as tannins and pectins. Conversely, unripe bael fruit is traditionally used to treat diarrhea, as its astringent properties help in reducing intestinal motility and secretion. Such dual action is noted in Ayurvedic texts, where bael is recommended for normalizing bowel movements and supporting the structural integrity of the lower bowel and rectum.

While there is a moderate amount of in vitro and animal research supporting these traditional uses, clinical evidence in humans is limited. The traditional rating reflects the strong ethnomedicinal background, though the lack of robust, high-quality clinical trials prevents a higher evidence rating. Nevertheless, the extensive use of Indian bael for rectal and lower gastrointestinal support in traditional medicine is well documented.

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Products containing Indian bael

Nature's Sunshine Blood Sugar Formula (Ayurvedic)